Seismic Data Collection via Radio Multi-Hop Sink Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seismic data acquisition systems lack autonomy for field operators, as they rely on centralized communication with lab teams for non-seismic data processing, and existing wireless implementations face limitations in network coverage, infrastructure requirements, and power consumption, restricting field operator independence and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A radio multi-hop network is used to enable seismic acquisition units to send data to a sink unit, with a link between the sink unit and a collecting device allowing field operators to process data without lab team communication, and allowing the system to manage numerous units and operate in harsh environments without configuration needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized data collection system is used, then data processing can be performed, but field operators lack autonomy and must communicate with lab teams for non-seismic data processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized data collection system into distributed collecting devices that can independently process non-seismic data. Each collecting device operates autonomously to collect and process data from seismic acquisition units within its coverage area, eliminating the need for constant communication with central lab teams while maintaining data processing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate collecting devices as mediators between seismic acquisition units and the central system. These collecting devices perform local data processing and only communicate essential information to the central unit, reducing communication requirements while maintaining system functionality and enhancing field operator autonomy.
2Ease of operation
If wireless point-to-multipoint networks are used for data collection, then field operators can collect data locally, but network coverage is limited and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple wireless communication technologies (Wi-Fi, cellular, satellite) into a unified collecting device that can automatically select and switch between different communication modes. This combination allows the system to maintain local data collection capabilities while extending coverage area by utilizing multiple communication infrastructure layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The collecting devices are designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in various communication modes and environments. Each device can function as a standalone data collection unit with multiple communication interfaces, making the system adaptable to different coverage scenarios without requiring dedicated infrastructure for each mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wireless cellular networks are used, then data can be transmitted remotely, but infrastructure requirements and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic communication mode selection where collecting devices automatically adjust their communication method based on available infrastructure and power conditions. The system can dynamically switch between low-power modes (Wi-Fi, direct communication) and high-range modes (cellular, satellite) to optimize the balance between remote transmission capability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as transmission power, sampling rate, and communication interval based on available power levels and environmental conditions. When power is limited, the device reduces transmission frequency and power; when power is abundant, it enhances transmission capability, thus adapting remote data transmission to power availability.
4Speed
If traditional wired implementations are used, then real-time data collection is achieved, but field operator independence and scalability are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data processing functionality from the centralized wired system and places it in distributed collecting devices. This allows real-time data collection to continue at the source while field operators gain independence through local processing capabilities, eliminating the need for constant centralized control while maintaining real-time operational speed.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is proposed a method for collecting, in a collecting device distinct from a central unit, data coming from a plurality of seismic acquisition units. The method comprises a step of assigning at least one device as a sink unit. For a given sink unit, the method also comprises the following steps for data specific to at least one seismic acquisition unit not assigned as a sink unit: transmitting the specific data from the at least one seismic acquisition unit to the given sink unit, via a radio path established in a radio multi-hop network built at least with the given sink unit and the plurality of seismic acquisition units; and transmitting the specific data from the given sink unit to the collecting device, via a link.